Predicting the effects of different harvesting regimes on forest floor dynamics in northern hardwoods

Abstract

The effects of different intensities of forest management on forest floor organic matter and N dynamics in northern hardwoods were simulated with a computer model built from the extensive data base of the Hubbard Brook Ecosystem Study. Three cutting intensities and 3 rotation lengths were tested. N availability and forest floor organic matter declined for 15-30 yr following cutting and required 60-80 yr to recover to precut levels. Rotation length had a much greater effect on the forest floor than harvesting intensity with short-rotation (30 yr) complete forest harvesting causing the greatest reduction in both biomass and N availability. Average forest floor biomass under this treatment was reduced to roughly 1/2 of that under clear-cutting (90 yr rotation).